baby blues vs. postnatal depression

Up to 80% of mothers go through the baby blues, often about three or four days after the

birth.You might feel very anxious about small things or mildly depressed, or just keep

bursting into tears for no apparent reason.

Baby blues may be caused by hormone changes, tiredness, discomfort from sore stitches

or breasts or even a feeling of anticlimax after all the excitement. Whatever the cause

you will usually find it only lasts a day or so. Cry if you feel like it and try to sleep if you can.

The best help your family can give is probably just to listen, give you a reassuring hug and

look after the baby while you get some rest.

If these feelings do not go away, it may be that you are simply not looking after yourself very

well. Take time out to treat yourself. Have a long, lazy bath, eat your favourite food or visit

a friend.

About 10% of mothers slide into a depression that may be quite deep. They are taken over

by a feeling of hopelessness. They may feel angry, but more often feel too exhausted to be

angry or even to cope with the simplest tasks.

If you feel like this, you must get help. You should contact your health visitor or GP and

explain how you are feeling. A family member or a friend might get in touch with them after

talking to you about it.